The Path to Awakening: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe.

On the seventeenth of June, 2022, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offered these profound insights regarding the path of practice.

The Radiance of Pure Goodness

What is meant by the term 'Goodness'? It refers to that which is wholesome and not evil. It is that which is truly beneficial to oneself, remaining upright and balanced, never veering into extremes. Above all, goodness is that which perfectly aligns with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way.

The Guiding Light of a True Spiritual Friend

A true spiritual friend is one who, in the course of your practice, can lead and guide you. They help you move forward along the path of the Truth and the Right Way without deviation. By their presence and guidance, they assist you in eventually rediscovering your true self.

A true spiritual friend must possess genuine virtue. Their words and actions must be in complete harmony; what they say is exactly what they do. They possess a sensitive awareness, are filled with positive energy, and bring light and hope to all those they encounter.

Manifestations of Wisdom and Compassion

In the context of your spiritual practice, a true spiritual friend can manifest in many forms:

• Those who have realised their true nature and can offer deep insight.
• Fellow practitioners who walk the path of the Dharma alongside you.
• The fourfold assembly of disciples, including monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen.
• Buddhas or Bodhisattvas who manifest in the human world as Venerables or lay practitioners to guide us.

These individuals serve as models of conduct for the fourfold assembly. If one can become a true spiritual friend to those who are learning to chant Namo Amituofo, they are effectively helping both the other person and themselves to attain Buddhahood.

The Transformative Journey Toward the Self

When you draw close to and learn from a true spiritual friend, you gain invaluable support for your journey. Through the process of learning, you absorb the lessons they express through both their physical presence and their verbal teachings. This interaction assists you in several vital ways:

• It helps you break through the obstacles and bottlenecks that often hinder your practice.
• It enables you to recognise the truth of reality, helping you to correct distorted thoughts and views.
• It allows you to see your own habits and faults clearly, which empowers you to change your ways and avoid creating negative karma.
• It provides the necessary support and encouragement to help you return to your true self as soon as possible.

Namo Amituofo.